Amy's Story

Amy Hewett, from Great Yarmouth, accessed care and support from EACH at our old hospice in Quidenham. She had a brain tumour, and died in 2017, aged six.

Mum Tracy and dad Gary explained: “She needed her medication given, couldn’t walk very well and used a wheelchair. She needed lots of attention all day and night.”

Amy, who has a sister, Mary, and brother, Gavin, received care and support from the EACH Symptom Management Nursing Service - a team of specialist nurses who work closely with children and young people with life-threatening conditions, their families and other professionals involved in their care, providing symptom management advice and support. Amy also went to Quidenham for weekends and day visits.

Tracy said: “Amy enjoyed coming to Quidenham. She loved all the arts and crafts, and the attention she would get from the team. As it was difficult for her to go upstairs to the bathroom at home, she enjoyed having a bath at Quidenham, especially the jacuzzi bubbles and sensory lights.”

I really love going to the hospice. I’ve made friends there and get to do loads of fun stuff.Renee

Renee loves going to The Treehouse, but it’s great that care staff are also able to visit us at home too.Stacy, Renee’s mum

When we first heard about the hospice we were apprehensive because we didn’t know what to expect. When we got there we realised it was a lovely place where Renee would be well looked after, and we would be able to have a much-needed break.Stacy, Renee’s mum

Children like Lucy don’t get the opportunity to go to sleepovers or to their friends for tea, so the interaction she has at the hospice is priceless.Heather, Lucy’s mum

I didn’t realise hope was a gift until I became a mum. My little boy taught me many things and that was one of themClaire, Jacob’s mum

It’s been a great opportunity to meet other parents in a similar situation, something that doesn't really happen anywhere else.Helen, William’s mum

EACH has helped us keep Stanley’s memory alive. And allows us to look to the futureBrad, Stanley's Dad

EACH supports families when they’re at their absolute lowest, helping them to come to terms with their child’s illness, losing them and beyondBrad, Stanley's Dad

EACH helped us with coping mechanisms and special ways of remembering Stanley.Brad, Stanley's Dad

The play specialists are excellent and I also get inspiration from the activities they organise.Heather, Lucy’s mum

I can’t imagine what it would have been like. Nobody should have to, every family should be offered the support we were, and are still gettingClaire, Jacob’s mum

We arrived at the hospice feeling scared and alone. We had so many questions – they answered them all and more.Claire, Jacob’s mum

We are also supported by the 24/7 True Colours nurses and it’s so reassuring knowing we can call on them whenever we need support or adviceHelen, William’s mum

EACH helps us to create lovely memories and has played an important part in all of our lives, not just Lucy’s.Heather, Lucy’s mum